Press Release 3-20-09

For immediate release

TO: News Desk, Assignment Editor

FR: Ron Hardin, Communications Manager

SNAP

2116 E. First Avenue, Spokane WA 99202

509-456-7111 ext.242; hardin@snapwa.org

Cell phone 993-7143

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Energy Assistance Dollars Continue to Flow

SNAP has distributed a record amount of Energy Assistance dollars during the current winter heating season. But, throughout early spring, there will continue to be assistance available to those in need in Spokane County.

“Traditionally, the phone lines are less busy as the weather improves and many households have been served,” according to Margaret Belote, Director of SNAP’s Energy Assistance Program. “We expect to continue to make energy assistance appointments through the month of May.”

Many households continue to face the challenge of higher utility bills. If a household has not requested Energy Assistance since October 1, 2008; eligibility can be determined by making a call to the SNAP appointment line.

The SNAP phone lines for energy assistance will be accepting calls on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and on Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The phone number is 242-2376. Web appointments are available on Wednesdays at www.snapwa.org

According to Belote, the current funds are expected to last through the month of May.

“We received more money from the Federal Government than ever before,” Belote said. “SNAP will continue distributing these funds until the money has been spent.”

“Unfortunately, many households are over our income guidelines,” she continued. “If a client has recently become unemployed, eligibility is determined based on the previous three months. Other programs may be available to those who are over the income limits.”

SNAP has already distributed help to 12,608 households in Spokane County with a dollar value of $6,255,533.

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About SNAP: SNAP connects and provides access to resources which creates opportunities, with dignity, for low income people.